The fire that impacted Cooktown’s Finch Bay and Cherry Tree Bay walking tracks earlier this month has now officially been declared safe by the Queensland Fire Department (QFD).
After days of close monitoring and fire management, QFD has handed the site back to the landowner, the Gallop Botanic Reserve, confirming that there is no smoke or active fire remaining.
A SMALL Spark That Burned for Days
The fire, which began in the low-lying undergrowth of the unique tropical coastal ecosystems within Gallop Reserve, burned for several days. While not rainforest, this area is an important and rare coastal environment that supports diverse flora and fauna. The fire caused visible damage across parts of the reserve, with scorched vegetation and blackened track areas reminding the community how quickly a single ignition can escalate.
Thanks to swift response and sustained action by the Queensland Fire Department, the spread of the fire was contained before it could cause even greater destruction — including the potential to threaten the historic collections housed at the Cooktown Botanic Gardens.
Ongoing Safety Risks
While the fire is no longer active, the area remains dangerous to the public. The intense heat has weakened a number of trees along the walking tracks, creating a significant risk of sudden tree failure. These hazards can be deadly and are not always visible, with damaged trees capable of falling without warning.
For this reason, the following walking tracks will remain closed until further notice:
- Finch Bay to Cherry Tree Bay
- Cherry Tree Bay to Grassy Hill
Council strongly urges residents and visitors to respect these closures to ensure their safety.
Community Cooperation
Cook Shire Council extends its thanks to the Queensland Fire Department for their tireless work in bringing the fire under control, and to the community for their cooperation and support throughout the incident.
While the fire has been brought to an end, its impact highlights how quickly a blaze can develop — and how important it is for the community to remain vigilant. A single spark, whether from carelessness or intentional action, can devastate landscapes, endanger people, and place treasured cultural and natural assets at risk.
Investigations Continue
Investigations into the cause of the fire remain ongoing. If you saw any suspicious behaviour or have information that could assist, please contact:
📞 PoliceLink on 131 444
🔒 Crime Stoppers (anonymous) on 1800 333 000
